Preparing to play competitive soccer requires that an athlete gets himself in top shape, learns the skills of the game and develops an instinct for taking advantage when the opponent has made a mistake. By practicing plays and honing your skills, you can become a strong player who can make a difference when the opportunity presents itself.
Split the Defense Drill
In this drill, three offensive players have the ball on the outside of the penalty area. Two defenders are inside of them, protecting the goalie. The three players must pass the ball and create an opportunity where they can split the defender and get a clear shot off at the goalkeeper. The offensive players must make at least three passes before attacking. If the defenders prevent a clean shot or steal the ball, they get a point. If the offensive players score a goal, they get a point. Play until one side has scored five points.
Receiving the Cross
In soccer, many of the best scoring chances come from when a ball that is on one side of the goal is crossed to the other. The key for taking advantage of this is to be able to control the ball and let loose with a powerful and effective shot. Receiving the cross takes concentration and effective ball skills. In this drill, one player will send high crossing passes to a teammate on the opposite side of the scoring area. The receiving player must control the ball and get a shot off on goal without hesitation. When one player has taken five shots, the two players switch positions.
Goalie Up Down Drill
This drill helps the goalkeeper get used to making quick movements. The goalkeeper sits on the ground a few feet in front of the goal line. A teammate stands about five to eight yards away. On the coach's signal, the goaltender stands up in the ready position while his teammate kicks a ball at his midsection. The goaltender must catch the ball cleanly and hurl the ball off to the side. He returns to the sitting position. The other player continues to deliver shots like this to the goalkeeper until he has played and caught 10 balls.
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